B Can an Object with N Dimensions Exist in N-1 Dimensions?

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An object with N dimensions cannot exist entirely in N-1 dimensions, as the fundamental properties of dimensions dictate that each dimension requires a corresponding degree of freedom. An infinitely flat object, such as a plane, is inherently two-dimensional and can be described by two non-parallel direction vectors, indicating it has only two degrees of freedom. Various mathematical results, including those related to embedding spaces, support the conclusion that higher-dimensional objects cannot be fully represented in lower-dimensional spaces. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the definitions of dimensions and the implications of embedding in mathematical contexts. Overall, the consensus is that dimensionality is a strict constraint that cannot be bypassed.
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I am concerned that this question may instead be a philosophical one although if it it mathematical, any insights would be very appreciated. The question is this; could an object of N dimensions exist entirely in N-1 dimensions? In other words, could an infinitely flat object have 3 degrees of freedom and also be able to fit entirely in 2D space? Thank you and please excuse any naivety
 
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duyix said:
The question is this; could an object of N dimensions exist entirely in N-1 dimensions?
No, it's not possible.

duyix said:
In other words, could an infinitely flat object have 3 degrees of freedom and also be able to fit entirely in 2D space? [\quote]
If by "infinitely flat object" you mean "a plane" it's already a two-dimensional object that can be determined by two nonparallel direction vectors. I.e., two degrees of freedom.
 
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There are different definitions of the term Dimension. One of them is that of number of data points needed to fully describe every point in the n-th dimensional object. And that number is precisely n.
There are results to the effect that ##\mathbb R^{n+k} ; k >0 ##; k a positive Integer, cannot be embedded in ##\mathbb R^n ##. There are similar results for n-spheres ## S^n ##. that cannot be embedded in ## \mathbb R^n ## or lower IIRC, the main result is that of Borsuk -Ulam.

Edit: A 1-dimensional object embedded in n-space is describable as ##(f_1(x), f_2(x),...,f_n(x))##.
An m-dimensional object in k-space is describable as ## (f_1(x_1,..., x_m), f_2(x_1,x_2,..,x_m),,..,f_k(x_1,x_2,..,x_m) )##
 
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